Abuse Reporting Requirements by State

In recent years, several states have focused their attention on animal abuse, neglect, and cruelty reporting by veterinarians, health care providers, and other social service providers. The clickable map below shows state laws and regulations that AVMA is aware of which require or encourage veterinarians and veterinary technicians to report animal abuse and cruelty. The map also includes states that provide civil or criminal immunity for good faith reporting of animal abuse. Keep in mind that veterinary professionals may report suspected abuse to authorities even in the absence of such a legal requirement.